​The City of Johannesburg’s Health Department is once again visiting public primary and special schools across the city to provide the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to female pupils aged nine to 15 years in grades 5 to 7.

This annual campaign, which began in 2014, is a joint effort between the City of Johannesburg, the Gauteng Department of Health, and the Department of Basic Education. It forms part of the Integrated School Health Programme, which also includes deworming, and health screenings for vision, hearing, oral health, and nutrition.

The vaccine being administered – Cervarix – is proven to be safe and highly effective against HPV types 16 and 18, which cause more than 70% of cervical cancer cases. Vaccinations are taking place at public and private primary schools, combined schools, and special schools across Johannesburg.

Parental consent forms are required for participation, although pupils aged 12 and older may provide self-consent. The campaign will continue until 7 November 2025.

“Cervical cancer is preventable, and I encourage parents to allow their children to get vaccinated,” said Cllr Ennie Makhafola, the MMC for Health and Social Development.

HPV is one of the most common infections worldwide, with about 80% of sexually active people contracting it at some point. In Southern Africa, nearly 9 000 new cervical cancer cases are diagnosed each year. Although the disease is preventable and treatable, it remains a major health challenge in developing countries — making early vaccination a vital step in protecting women’s health.

Written by Ayanda Radebe